A new downhole magnetic susceptibility (MS) tool will provide logging data to enhance paleoclimate and sedimentological studies under IODP and will complement the existing multisensor gamma ray tool (MGT). The project will design a MS tool that has better resolution (10 cm as opposed to 1 m) than the tool previously available for some legs of the ODP program. The resulting data will prove critical for the intercorrelation of cores from multiple holes and the integration of cores and logs from single holes. The tool will be built from off-the-shelf sensor fit with the appropriate pressure housing and data acquisition/transmission system, and the proponents intend to comply with third-party downhole tool guidelines articulated by the IODP advisory structure. The MS tool could find potential application not only in the deep-sea environment, but also in lacustrine and continental settings. It is expected that the MS tool will eventually be routinely run as part of nearly every IODP program on the non-riser vessel. Field tests on the new tool are scheduled for late 2005 and 2006.
